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Heirloom Apple fest returns Oct. 27-28

The Hood River Heirloom Apple Celebration, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 27-28, brings out “heirloom” or “classic” varieties, some of which trace their heritage back 100 years or more.

These are the apples which were made into great-grandma’s flavorful pies, or baked to serve at dinner. Many are also wonderful “eating” apples. Some “heirloom” apples may not store as well or as long as commercial varieties; they may be more difficult to grow, or they may bruise more easily. But they taste so good! Their individual flavors and aromas have been compared to those of different vintages of wine.

Heirloom apples include such old-style and tasty apple varieties such as Spitzenburg, Rome Beauty, Newtown Pippin, Winter Banana and Ortley. They were traditional favorites for mouth-watering apple pie and applesauce. And they were so delicious eaten right off the tree! Such special apples are still available, though often in small quantities, and likely not at your neighborhood supermarket. Many people have only heard of them, and have never had the opportunity to actually taste them.

Limited supplies of heirloom apples are available, and will be found all along the Hood River County Fruit Loop during the Heirloom Apple Celebration. Many Fruit Loop farms are offering special activities throughout the weekend.

Admission and parking at all Fruit Loop attractions is free. Farms and attractions along the Fruit Loop are open from at least 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (wineries open at 11 a.m.). For complete information about Heirloom Apple Days, for a listing of Fruit Loop farms, attractions and individual operating hours, and for an easy-to-follow map, visit the Fruit Loop website at www.hoodriverfruitloop.com.